A new group of students have come forward to destigmatize mental health awareness. Together, they have formed the Coppell Mental Health Club as they believe and emphasize that taking care of your mind is just as important as acing your next exam.
CMHC’s mission is simple but impactful: to provide students with tools to prioritize their mental well-being through mindfulness, physical activity and open discussions. Their belief is mental health and mindfulness does not have to be complicated.
“People turn up for the club because it’s different,” club sponsor Angela Barnes said.
The club hosts events blending education with relaxation. Meditation and yoga days are some of the most popular activities, offering students a chance to unwind while learning about the impact of physical activity and mindfulness on mental health.
These events are opportunities for students to understand how to manage their emotions.
“I was going through severe mental health issues and didn’t know how to cope with them, but I’ve learned that activities like these really help,” senior vice president Vaishnika Pagadala said.
For many members, the club offers healthy ways to cope with their own mental health struggles.
“Mental health struggles are something many people go through,” senior president and co-founder Megha Varshini Vallepu said. “It was a big part of my story, and that’s why this club is really important to me.”
The club is a safe space where students do not have to hide their struggles.
“Our school is really competitive, and it’s a very high-stress environment,” Vallepu said. “Our club is here to promote positive vibes and create a place where people don’t have to worry about anything.”
While CMHC primarily focuses on student wellness, it also emphasizes kindness toward others. CMHC actively gives back to the community through charitable initiatives, one of them being its book donation drive to support Dallas ISD.
“It’s about being kind to yourself, but also being kind to others. We want to spread positivity and encourage everyone to learn,” senior historian Sharadh Jyotsna said.
Many students still hesitate to acknowledge the importance of mental health or feel unsure about joining in.
“There’s a barrier in people saying, ‘I can’t do it,’” Barnes said. “Yet, the club is committed to continue spreading awareness and making a difference in the community.”
As the club makes an impact at CHS, its members emphasize that mental health matters, and taking care of your mind is just as crucial as striving for academic excellence.
“They’re making a bigger impact than I probably even realize,” Barnes said.
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